Flaws of the 3pfg numerals

Numerals, or better known as 'numbers in rosettes' remain one of the more extensively printed stamps throughout the German Empire, in fact it is present in such an excess that mint sheets are still commonly found. 

I am in the process of sorting and scanning some of these, and thought it would be great for a short write-up. At the moment I have quite a few of 3pfg stamp that has these flaws. 

This is the normal 3pfg stamp, MiNr. 338.

Plate flaws exists when a specific set of stamps are printed in an amount so excessive that flaws arise through all the wear and tear throughout the printing process. Depending on the catalogue referred, only major errors are documented while minor flaws and print defects are often excluded. 

In this scan, the stamp in the middle is the unflawed normal stamp. The stamp on the left (1) has a flaw where the line/dash has merged with the upper right horn ornament. Stamp on the right (2) has a minor line break.

(1) Enlarged. Notice that the line has merged with the horn.


(2) Enlarged. Notice that one of the lines are broken. This is very minor.


Stamp on the left (3) has the line on ornament merging with the inner round frame. 
Stamp in the middle (4) has a broken line.
Stamp on the right (5) has lines filled.


(3) Enlarged. Line on the ornament merging with the inner round frame. However, I think this is rather common, and it may have not been a flaw. Thick ink with a worn plate would definitely produce such a print.


(4) Enlarged. Broken line. 


(5) Enlarged. Filled lines - a dab of ink between the lines giving the impression that the lines were filled or merged.

Stamp on the left (6) with a broken line on the left 
Stamp on the right (7) broken line and deformed '3'


(6) Enlarged. Broken line on the left.

(7) Enlarged. Broken line and a deformed '3', with the impression of it being chipped in the lower part. 

Here are only some of the many, I believe, plate flaws and defects seen on the 3pfg stamp. As I do not own Michel Specialized, this post would never be possible without a general list of flaws and defects put up by worldstampsproject. 

If you happen to have a pack of multiples, give them a quick check! Since they are printed in millions, a flaw is not far from impossible. 

Thanks for dropping by!

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